“A footpath for the feet, a pathway for the mind.”
One of the best keep secrets of the Genesis Route is without a doubt the Labyrinth at Boondocks. This gem is just 4.3km from Kaapmuiden on the N4 between Nelspruit and Malelane on 2 200 hectares of pristine bushveld that offers stunning valley views. The Boondocks Labyrinth is based on the classic medieval Labyrinth in the Charles Cathedral in France which was built in 1204.
The Labyrinth is said to date back to 2500BC and is said to represent the shape of mother- nature. The single straight entrance and exit point is designed to represent both the umbilical cord and birthing canal, both of which give birth to our soul. Once you have entered the labyrinth you have no choice but to follow the pattern, there is no right or wrong way when it comes to walking the path. Once you get going you will soon find you have lost your sense of direction and forgotten about the buzz of the outside world, which leads to a wonderful quietening of the mind. This serene quiet helps us to reflect on what is important in our lives.
Labyrinth walking is an ancient practice known as “The laying of the feet.” All labyrinths are unicursal which means the path you follow to the centre is the same as the path you follow out. Unlike a maze it does not have dead ends and so you cannot get lost in a labyrinth. These unique paths are said to have healing properties, for your emotional, spiritual and physical wellbeing.
The Boondocks Labyrinth is on top of a mountain and set in a stunning garden. The way up to the labyrinth is a wide path that follows a stream. Overhead you are shaded from the blazing sun by the leaves of ancient trees giving the area a truly mystical atmosphere. Along the hike up the mountain, you will have the company of Baboons, Bushbuck, Impala, Klipspringer, Warthogs and many other wild animals that call the area their home. Birding enthusiasts will find that the Birding Trails in particular have a wide array of birds. There are also several nature trails that have niches nestled into the side of them for quiet meditation or just to take a break and relax.
It makes no difference whether you walk the labyrinth for spiritual reasons or just to say you have done it, the area in which this labyrinth has been built has such a tranquil atmosphere that you will feel rejuvenated after visiting here. Once at the labyrinth, a quick look around will have you looking at some of the most spectacular bushveld in the Lowveld.
If you would like to visit the Labyrinth, take note that it is by appointment only. Day visitors are very welcome and it is a good idea to pack your picnic basket and make a day of it. There is a spa-bath and outdoor shower and no cell phone signal in the area.